Could you please circulate this in ETAN's list? I am sending the
declaration in English and Portuguese. The Tetum version I will send it
later.

English

Declaration of Provedor for Human Rights and Justice on the Declaration
of State of Siege

12 February 2008

The Provedor for Human Rights and Justice of Timor-Leste strongly
condemns the violent attacks against the President of the Republic, H.E.
Dr. José Ramos Horta and Prime-Minister, H.E. Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão on
Monday 11 February 2008.

The Provedor is concerned about the health situation of the President
of the Republic and wishes for his speedy recovery.

The Provedor recognizes the effort undertaken to meet the serious
situation currently in the country. The Provedor also recognizes that the
legal provisions and procedures have been followed in declaring the State
of Siege.

Yesterday the Interim President of Republic declared, on the basis of
authorization given by the National Parliament, a State of Siege for 48
hours to take place in the entire territory. During this period the
guarantee of freedom of movement, including a curfew between 20:00 and
6:00 hours, as well as the right of assembly and demonstration have been
suspended.

The suspension of certain rights is enshrined in the Constitution, and
the Provedor considers this measure proportional to the current situation.
The rest of the fundamental freedoms remain in force.

The Provedor urges the Government to notify the declaration of State of
Siege to the Human Rights Committee following Timor-Leste's obligation
under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

During the State of Siege, the Provedoria is open and undertaking its
regular tasks, including the monitoring of the security forces actions in
Dili.

The Provedor is alert on the situation and is available to receive
complaints against public actions violating the rights and fundamental
guarantees.

To make any complaint, please contact number 7299646. The communication
can be made through message (SMS) or by miss call.

The Provedor underlines that any use of force shall be in accordance
with the Law and it shall be used only when strictly necessary.

Provedoria is ready to respond, at any time, for the protection of
people's fundamental rights.